I have to inform you of an important and unexpected detail: the cinema "Kinopanorama" in Kyiv at Shota Rustaveli Street, 19, has not been operating since October 1, 2018 and is currently not in use as a movie viewing venue. The owner, Istil Group, made the decision to close it, and the building, which was the first panoramic cinema in the USSR built in 1958, has been put up for sale for 10 million dollars.
About the place — history and significance
"Kinopanorama" is not just a cinema, but a true architectural and cultural symbol of Kyiv, which became the first panoramic cinema in the entire Soviet Union in 1958. The building is designed in the style of Stalinist monumentalism with elements of Art Deco, making it visually unique against the backdrop of modern city development. Initially, films were shown on an ultra-wide panoramic screen, which was a revolutionary technology for that time, and this is what gave the place its name.
Over time, the cinema transformed into a corner for lovers of arthouse, classic, and independent films from various countries, often shown in their original versions. Locals knew "Kinopanorama" as a great place to learn English through watching British and American films. The cinema had two halls: a large one with 403 seats and a small intimate one with 16 seats, allowing for a variety of events to be organized.
What to see and do now
As of today, you cannot go to watch a film at "Kinopanorama" since the cinema is completely closed and not operating. However, the building itself is an interesting object to view: you can approach the entrance to appreciate the monumental Stalinist architecture and the preserved Art Deco facade. Part of the building's premises is now rented out for cafes and restaurants, so you can enter as a visitor to experience the atmosphere of this place.
If you are interested in the history of cinema in Ukraine, it is worth noting that in 2021, a public discussion arose around "Kinopanorama": activists created a petition calling for the building to be preserved in communal ownership and to guarantee its cultural purpose regardless of ownership changes. This indicates that the place holds significance for the Kyiv community even in its closed state.
How to get there
The cinema is located in the very center of Kyiv at Shota Rustaveli Street, 19, in the Pechersk district, near the Bessarabsky market and Sport Square. The nearest metro station is "Sport Palace" (Svyatoshynsko-Brovarska line), which is only 100 meters from the building. You can also orient yourself to the "Leo Tolstoy Square" station, which is also very close.
The building has three floors and a total area of 1900 square meters, making it a noticeable landmark on the street. If you are driving, note that the city center has parking restrictions, so it is better to use public transport or walk from the metro.
Hours and prices
Since the cinema is not operating, the schedule for film screenings and ticket prices for viewing are not relevant. The building is for sale for 10 million dollars, and individual premises are rented out for cafes, so the hours of operation depend on the establishments located there. If you plan to visit a rented cafe, it is better to check its hours separately, as the official website of the cinema does not provide information about current establishments in the building.
Who is this place for
Today, "Kinopanorama" is not suitable for a date, family outing, or meeting with friends in the classic cinema format, as films are not shown here. This place is interesting for architectural enthusiasts, film historians, and people who want to feel the atmosphere of old Kyiv, appreciating the monumental building from 1958. You can allocate about 15–20 minutes for viewing the facade and a short walk around.
If you want to find a cinema in Kyiv to watch arthouse or independent films, it is better to refer to other places, such as "House of Cinema" at Saksahanskoho 6 or "Kyiv" at Velyka Vasylkivska 19, which continue to operate.
Visitor tips
The best time to view the building is during the day, when the light best highlights the details of Art Deco and the monumentality of Stalinist architecture. Since "Kinopanorama" is located near the Bessarabsky market, you can visit the market after viewing the building to taste local dishes or buy groceries. If you are interested in the history of the cinema, read the activists' petition to preserve the building — this will give you a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of the place.
Are you planning to visit other operating cinemas in Kyiv to watch independent films, or are you specifically interested in the architectural history of "Kinopanorama" as a closed venue?
